James Baldanza began his "behind-the-scenes" career in motion pictures over a decade ago in 1996 as a student in the University of Miami's School of Communication, where he majored in Motion Pictures and Photography. After taking advantage of a unique opportunity to attend the week-long Steadicam Operator Association (SOA) Workshop-an accelerated, intensive training "boot camp" in practical and theoretical Steadicam operation-James added the fundamentals of Steadicam shotmaking to his repertoire.

As a graduate of the university, James was a technician for a camera and equipment rental company trusted by many in the Miami film industry. There, he prepared and maintained all types of motion picture cameras and related equipment, including Tyler mounts, Hydroflex underwater housing, and Power Pod remote heads.

James now works as an operator on various feature films, television shows, and commercials including "Rock of Ages", "The Possession", "Burn Notice", "Charlie's Angels", "The Glades", Apple Computer, Ralph Lauren, FedEx, Telefonica, and Chase Bank.

Member: Steadicam Operators Association (SOA), Society of Camera Operators (SOC), and International Cinematographers Guild of the IATSE, Local 600.